Some thought it was an astronomical number - give senators a $20,000 pay raise to run the state. A measure would have hiked senators annual salaries from $12,000 to $32,000.

That's not happening.

Instead, the bill advanced to the floor with a $10,500 increase, bringing lawmakers proposed salaries to $22, 500.

Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh says at the current rate - people who depend on a full-time job to make ends meet, couldn't run for office.

The Omaha Senator says this is a good compromise

"I'm happy...that's exactly where I wanted to get to. It adjust the price for inflation. It makes perfect sense, " Lautenbaugh said.

The salary hasn't changed in 24 years. But if it does, taxpayers have to vote on it, first.